Soft Drink Makers Caught Out By High Alcohol Levels In Products

Two manufacturers shut down

Two manufacturers have been shut down after locally-brewed soft drink testing by the Victorian government found almost half of samples breached alcohol standards.

Conducted by theDepartment of Health and Human Servicesearlier this year, 47% of the 77 soft drink test samples collected – which includedkombucha,water kefirandginger beer– did not meet current requirements.

The DHHS spokesperson told the Hit Network that manufacturers were advised to follow DHHS standards for brewed soft drinks available on FoodSmart, which includes standards for labelling.

“Unknown consumption of alcohol can cause harm to some consumers such as pregnant women and people on certain medications, and may mislead others," they said.

Manufacturers who are unable to keep their alcohol content at less than 0.5% alcohol by volume are being referred to the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation for liquor licensing.

Retailers are also being warned to question manufacturers on the standards being used the products they stock.